Communication Tool:

Group Members: Brooke Donegan, Ashton Brown, Lauren Albertin


Screenshot or logo

Brief introduction of the tool

This communication tool is software application that allows users to have phone calls, instant messaging chats, file transfers, and video chats/conferences over the internet for free.

• Advantages of the tool

Efficient: Skype is easy to install on any computer and it is free. It can be used on both Macs and PCs.
Effective: It has a large community with numerous users and it is popular through out the world.
Enhancement: The quality of the video chat is superior to that of other free programs like MSN messenger.

• Disadvantages (limitations) of the tool

Some functions are not free such as chats to land lines and games.
Skype requires the Internet to function and has been a target for hackers.
When using internationally the service quality isn’t the greatest.

Application of the tool in your subject area

Students will use this tool to communicate with students in other Hispanic countries. We will have either large group video conferences or the students will have individual conferences. Depending on which we use, my role will vary but the students will always have the same job, to speak with the Hispanic students. If we are having a large chat then I will have to monitor the chat and pose questions, but for individual chats I will just walk around and see if the students are having any problems or have any questions.



Find a tutorial video on YouTube

List of key features showed in the ScreenToaster :

· What you need
· How to download it (step-by-step)
· How to install Skype
o Set up your account
· Key points to getting started
· Configuring Skype options
o How to add contacts
· How to use Skype to call another computer-based user

Useful Resources

http://www.skype.com/welcomeback/

http://about.skype.com/

http://skype-news.tmcnet.com/